What layer of the OSI model do IPsec tunnels function on?

Liza was told by her network administrator that they will be implementing IPsec VPN tunnels to connect the branch locations to the main office.

What layer of the OSI model do IPsec tunnels function on?
A . The data link layer
B . The session layer
C . The network layer
D . The application and physical layers

View Answer

Answer: C

Explanation:

IPsec VPN tunnels function at the network layer of the OSI model. This layer is responsible for the logical transmission of data across a network and includes routing through different network paths. IPsec enhances the security at this layer by providing features such as data integrity, encryption, and authentication. These features are crucial for establishing a secure and encrypted connection across the internet, which is essential for VPN tunnels that connect different network segments, such as branch locations to a main office.

Reference: The role of IPsec at the network layer is well-established in network security literature and is consistent with the Certified Network Defender (CND) program’s teachings on secure network architecture12. The network layer’s involvement in routing and data transmission makes it the appropriate layer for IPsec’s operation, aligning with the CND’s emphasis on understanding and implementing network security protocols34.